Preparing for the worst

Newton College and Career Academy students learn emergency tactics

(From left) Theresa Kuhn, Ashley Jean-Baptist, Janae Hosley, Hannah Bolden and Michael Spivey after his visit to the Newton College and Career Academy event.

Newton County EMT Michael Spivey spoke to students at the Newton College and Career academy Wednesday about emergency tactics and his own personal experiences.

He carefully shared with students ways to properly perform skills assisting patients in time of emergency. Theresa Kuhn, Health Care Science trainer, believes the skills being taught open up new avenues for students who are interested in going into the medical field.

"It's more than just high school now. It's getting them work ready," Kuhn said.

Spivey has been working as an EMS for four years, first starting with the National EMS in Rockdale County. He was born and raised in Covington and currently resides in Morgan County. He began working as a designer for houses, but once the housing market declined, he decided to go into the medical field. He said he was inspired by a close friend who also works as an EMS.

"I hope the kids appreciate this. I hope it exposes them to more options," Spivey said.

The NCCA plans to also open a diagnostic center to allow students to gain knowledge in other areas of the medical field. According to the Newton Career Academy website, high school students at NCAA are able to experience hands-on professions within the healthcare field including nursing, diagnostic and therapeutic services and informatics.

It provides challenging academic courses, and specialty in technical skills needed to succeed in the healthcare industry. For more information on their healthcare program or other career pathways the NCAA inhabits, visit newtoncareeracademy.org.